Te Mata Estate 'Bullnose' Syrah 2018

The intensity of the perfume and the power of the nose took even the pros by surprise. It’s driven by spice and dried flowers, with crackles of tannin and black pepper singing over a chorus of blueberry and licorice. Almost pinot-like in its appeal, this is truly top-shelf winemaking, crafting power through finesse and depth. There’s drive to see it improve for many years, and be utterly stunning whenever you open it. Te Mata is best known for its iconic Coleraine cabernet blend, but I think I might revere the Bullnose even more.